Tips for Successful Breast Pumping
How to express breast milk minus the stress
10 simple tips to get the pumping party started
Whether a return to work is calling, you’re desperate for a night out or just keen to share the responsibility of feeding your baby, most new mamas eventually need some time off from breastfeeding. Enter the breast pump.
While it might seem daunting at first, with tubes, suction and strange noises, it’s not so complicated once you get the hang of it. And just like any new skill, it can take a bit of time to learn. So how do you become a pumping pro? Read on to find out…
- Get started with the right pump : Before you meet your new baby, it’s a good idea to research, purchase and familiarise yourself with your breast pump. Depending on whether you’re planning on being an occasional pumper or pumping regularly, manual pumps like this one from Haaka and electric pumps like this one from Vital Baby each have different merits. That’s a whole other blog!
- The pre-pump clean-up : Before you get started, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, and ensure you’ve cleaned and sterilised your pump as per the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re planning on storing the milk, cleanliness is super important to avoid passing any nasties on to your baby.
- Create a designated pumping spot : Whether it’s at work or home, find a comfortable, quiet spot where you can have some uninterrupted pumping time. Make your go-to spot cosy and relaxing, with everything you need on hand. You’ll want a good book (or your phone) to pass the time, snacks (lactation cookies are perfect), a bottle of water and some soothing nipple cream. Think of pumping as an opportunity for some precious time out rather than a dreaded chore.
- Get your seating right : Once you’ve found your spot, get your seating sorted. A comfy chair that supports your back is a must for pumping sessions that won’t leave you aching. Make sure your feet are flat on the floor and have a cushion or nursing pillow handy to support your pump-holding arm.
- Dress for pumping success : A feeding-friendly wardrobe is essential for easy pumping or breastfeeding access. Get the basics right, starting with a comfortable nursing bra like this one from Body Silk and then layer with buttoned shirts from your existing wardrobe or specific nursing tops or dresses.
- Breathe deeply and relax : Expressing can be a stressful experience until you get the hang of it, so once you’re in position and have your pump ready to go, take some slow, relaxing breaths. Slow breathing calms your nervous system and is a good way to get yourself in the zone. Try breathing in for the count of 5, pausing, then exhaling for the count of 6. Repeat until relaxed.
- Encourage let-down : In the absence of a sucking baby, encouraging let-down can be one of the trickiest parts of pumping. A soft massage before pumping coupled with a warm compress like a wheat bag can help get your milk-makers ready to go. Thinking about your baby (if he’s not with you) or looking through photos or videos (you’ll likely have a few) will also assist.
- Resist bottle-watching : While it’s tempting to stare at the bottle, obsessing over how quickly (or slowly) it’s filling up – it won’t help! Just like the old saying ‘A watched pot never boils’, a watched bottle doesn’t fill. It’s tough to be relaxed while compulsively watching your milk ducts do their thing. If you really can’t resist the urge, throw a blanket over the bottle, and go for the big reveal several minutes later.
- Don’t waste a drop : Seeing any of that precious milk wasted is slightly soul-destroying, so be prepared to catch leaks and spills. Haaka has produced a clever little milk collector called the Ladybug that allows you to capture every last drop. You can use it between feeds, or place on your other breast while pumping to capture excess milk that would usually be resigned to a nursing pad.
- There’s an app for that : If you’re planning on being a regular pumper, an app like Milk Maid will help you keep track of how much you pump, when you’ve pumped and how much you have stored. That’s one less thing for a tired mama to try and remember!
Be consistent and persistent
Just like anything new, breast pumping has its learning curve. It involves a bit of trial and error to find out what works best for you, and a degree of persistence. And while it might feel strange and uncomfortable early on, the above tips will have it feeling like just another part of your normal baby routine soon enough.
Remember, professional help is always available too if you need it.
